A Texas homeowner says a solar panel installation turned into a roof-leak dispute that took months of calls, emails, texts, and a certified letter to move forward.
John Haukness told FOX 26 Houston that leaks began after solar panels were installed on his Texas City home in 2024.
He said he first noticed peeling paint about eight months ago, then later found wet sheetrock and water damage in two bedrooms beneath the panels.
The case remains a dispute, not a confirmed finding that the panels caused the damage. For homeowners considering rooftop solar, it shows why roof-penetration warranties, repair access, and panel removal costs should be clear before an installer starts work.
The Homeowner Says the Damage Was Under the Panels
Haukness told FOX 26 he has lived in the home since 1991 and had not dealt with roof leaks in that part of the house before the solar installation.
He said Starlight Solar came out once and attempted a repair, but the leaking continued.
FOX 26 reported that it reviewed text messages, emails, and a certified mail receipt documenting Haukness’s attempts to contact the company about the problem.
The Contract Included Roof-Penetration Language
FOX 26 also reviewed Haukness’s solar contract and reported that it included workmanship warranty language tied to roof penetrations made during installation.
The station said the agreement also included provisions addressing water infiltration related to covered roof penetrations, but FOX 26 had not determined whether the reported leaks fall under those warranty provisions.
A solar contract may treat panel performance, equipment warranties, workmanship, roof penetrations, removal, reinstallation, and water damage as separate issues.
The Company Says It Is Still Working With Him
Starlight Solar told FOX 26 it takes customer concerns seriously and remains committed to working with Haukness.
The company also told the station the matter had been resolved, while Haukness said discussions were still ongoing.
According to the report, Haukness is waiting to hear whether the company will schedule removal and reinstallation of the panels so the roof can be repaired.
Solar Contracts Should Spell Out Roof Repairs
The Federal Trade Commission advises homeowners comparing solar offers to check what warranties apply to the equipment and the installation workmanship.
The FTC also says lease or power-purchase contracts should explain what happens if the roof needs repair after the system is installed.
In Texas, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation says residential solar retailers and salespersons must be registered beginning September 1, 2026.
Before signing, homeowners should get roof-repair terms, workmanship coverage, water-intrusion language, panel removal and reinstallation costs, response timelines, and complaint steps in writing.